
However, the controls are a little confusing you have to actually press Start after finding your program and timing (which is a different process from the other models, which start automatically). The Ultra's controls are digital (versus the analog buttons in many other models), with a large knob to switch among the features and a toggle button to adjust settings. With the other models, you need to move the actual vent, which can be a little intimidating during the first few uses. It has one feature we particularly love: a separate Quick Release button on top of the lid that keeps your hand away from the vent and its escaping steam. Its sleek, modern look with a large, bright blue display boasts a a cooking time graph (so you can quickly see where the pot is in the pressure-building/cooking/releasing process). If high design is important to you, the Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1 is worth the price. More expensive than many other Instant Pots Read the Instant Pot Duo Nova 7-in-1 Multi Pressure Cooker review here Overall, if you’re after a simple, no-fuss multicooker, the Instant Pot Duo Nova is a good option, which is why it took home a Tom's Guide 2022 Award for Best Instant Pot. However, the inner pot and parts are easy to hand wash with soapy water. If you do have the 10-quart size, bear in mind this may be a little too big for your average dishwasher. However, this isn’t a real deal breaker for those who just want ease of use, practical features, and a range of sizes to suit your needs. Despite having all the basic programs, one downside is the absence of a Bake setting. However, results for cooking basmati rice, and steaming vegetables were not as consistent in quality. Each program has three settings to choose from (low, normal, high), which also allows for preheat time, which you can see on the handy display progress bar. We were particularly impressed by the saute function for onions and searing meat, which took less time than cooking in a conventional frying pan. The only downside is the inner pot doesn’t come with handles, like other Instant Pots, so you'll need to take care when lifting the pot after cooking.ĭuring our tests, the Instant Pot Duo Nova performed well when pressure cooking meat dishes, stews and casseroles, with succulent and tasty results. The Duo Nova comes with a stainless steel inner pot with sealing ring, steam rack and extra seal ring, which is handy as the silicone tends to pick up odors. It also has an updated steam release valve and a progress indicator that shows when the Instant Pot is coming up to pressure, when it’s cooking, and when it’s finished. It’s also worth noting that it’s the only model with a 10-quart option, making it the ideal capacity for large families or those cooking up a feast. The Instant Pot Duo Nova is essentially the venerable Instant Pot Duo, but with an updated, large digital interface.
